Croft Name for Belgian Tervuren

A key herding term referring to the act of circling livestock to control their movement. This name is a direct tribute to the Belgian Tervuren's original function and inherent herding instincts. It represents intelligence, control, and purposeful movement. The ability to flank effectively is a sign of a highly skilled herding dog, showcasing its ability to think independently and work in partnership with a handler to manage the flock.

From the Old French 'flanc,' of Germanic origin, meaning 'the side.'

A Dutch word for 'quay' or 'wharf,' a structure built along a waterway for loading and unloading ships. This name connects to the many Belgian cities like Antwerp and Bruges that are defined by their rivers and canals. It evokes a sense of strength, stability, and connection to commerce and hard work. A quay is a solid, dependable structure, much like the Tervuren's robust and well-muscled build, designed for endurance and purpose.

From the Dutch 'kade,' meaning 'quay,' likely from a West Frisian word.

Honors M.F. Corbeel, the Belgian brewer credited as the foundational breeder of the Tervuren variety. This name is steeped in the breed's origin story, representing the very beginning of its formal development. Corbeel used his foundation dogs, Tom and Poes, not only for breeding but also to pull his beer cart and guard the brewery, epitomizing the Tervuren's blend of strength, work ethic, and protective instincts from its inception.

A Belgian surname, famously associated with M.F. Corbeel, the brewer from the village of Tervuren who was a key figure in the breed's establishment.

This name refers to a messenger, a role Belgian Shepherds, including Tervurens, performed with distinction during World War I. It highlights the breed's intelligence, trainability, speed, and endurance. A courier dog had to navigate dangerous and chaotic environments to deliver vital messages, requiring both physical prowess and a strong bond with its handler. This name honors the breed's heroic service and its capacity for complex, high-stakes work.

From the Old French 'coreor,' meaning 'a runner,' derived from the Latin 'currere,' 'to run.'

Refers to a hard, black lignite, known for its deep, lustrous black color. This name is a direct and stylish nod to the Belgian Tervuren's prominent black features: its mandatory black mask, black ears, and the black overlay (`charbonnage`) that gives the coat its characteristic look. 'Jett' is a name that suggests something sleek, strong, and valuable, mirroring the breed's athletic build and striking appearance.

From the Old French 'jaiet,' derived from the Greek 'Gagates lithos,' meaning 'stone of Gages,' a town in Asia Minor.

The French word for 'lively,' 'bright,' or 'keen.' This name perfectly encapsulates the Belgian Tervuren's temperament and intelligence. They are described as being alert, full of life, and always in motion. 'Vif' speaks to their quick mind, their energetic nature, and their sharp, attentive expression. It’s a name that captures the breed's vibrant spirit and high intelligence in a single, concise syllable.

From the Latin 'vivus,' meaning 'alive, living.'

Refers to the letters of the ancient Germanic alphabet, which were often associated with mystery and magic. This name suggests a deep, ancient wisdom and a complex intelligence that is not always easy to read. It fits the Belgian Tervuren's enigmatic quality, particularly their intelligent, questioning expression and their reserved nature with strangers. 'Rune' implies a hidden depth and a powerful, almost magical, intuition.

From the Old Norse 'rún,' meaning 'a secret, a mystery, a rune.'

A modern-sounding name with roots in old European names, suggesting strength and fortitude. It has a solid, structural sound, like 'bricks,' which reflects the Belgian Tervuren's solidly muscled, well-balanced physique that gives an 'impression of depth and solidity without bulkiness'. The name implies a dog that is a foundational, reliable, and strong part of the family—a cornerstone you can depend on.

A Danish surname, a short form of Brictius, a 5th-century saint. It is also a place name in Normandy, France.